eel-basket
Definition
Noun: A type of trap used for catching eels, typically a cylindrical basket made of wicker or wire, with a funnel-shaped entrance that allows eels to enter but makes it difficult for them to escape.
Usage Examples
- (A wicker trap for catching eels.)
- (A handmade trap for eels.)
- (A trap specifically designed for eels.)
Advanced Usage
"to use an eel-basket": to employ this type of trap in fishing.
- In some coastal villages, locals still use an eel-basket to catch eels for food. (They rely on the traditional trap.)
"eel-basket fishing": the practice of catching eels using such baskets.
- Eel-basket fishing is a sustainable method that does not harm other aquatic life. (The technique of using this trap.)
Variants and Related Words
Eel-buck (n): an alternative name for an eel-basket, especially in some regional dialects.
- The old eel-buck was repaired with new wire. (Another term for the same trap.)
Eel trap (n): a general term for any device used to catch eels, including eel-baskets.
- This eel trap functions like a funnel. (A broader category.)
Synonyms
- Eel trap: any device for catching eels.
- Fyke net: a type of net trap used for eels, similar in function but different in construction.
Related Idioms
- Slippery as an eel: difficult to catch or hold onto, used metaphorically for elusive people.
- The suspect was as slippery as an eel, escaping every attempt to catch him. (Hard to capture, like an eel in a basket.)